Meet the archaeologist
The University of Exeter archaeology department are excavating a site close to Columbjohn Chapel on the Killerton estate. Visit the excavation site and meet field school director, Dr Susan Greaney to discover what they have found.
- Booking essential
- Admission applies
The university team are hoping to locate the manor house at Columbjohn, purchased by Sir John Acland in 1580. The manor house was a significant location during the English civil war, 1642-1649. Visit three or four trenches and discover what the team are unearthing. There will also be an opportunity to visit the Chapel, which is normally closed.
This follows on from the dig last year which can be seen featured on BBC iPlayer series 12:6. Lost mansions and impaled prisoners.
The dig site is 2km each way, following a well way-marked route from Killerton House.
Times
Prices
| Ticket type | Ticket category |
|---|---|
| Adult Adult Ticket | £7.00 |
| Child Child Ticket | £5.00 |
The basics
- Booking details
Call 03442491895
- Suitability
Children over 12, accompanied by an adult, are welcome.
- Meeting point
Meet at the tent near Columbjohn Chapel, EX5 4ER. There is parking at the farm but please book. Alternatively, it is a 2km signposted walk from Killerton House.
- What to bring and wear
Please dress for the outdoors and wear study shoes or boots.
- Accessibility
Portaloos are available at the dig site. The walk is 2km each way with a bench at the half-way point. There are no surfaced paths around the dig site. The ground is uneven and can be muddy. A limited number of car parking spaces are available at the site, by prior arrangement. Please contact killerton@nationaltrust.org or phone 01392 883145 to book.
Upcoming events
1920s Garden Party at Killerton
Set in front of the house, bring a picnic and blanket and join us at Killerton for a 1920s garden party with exclusive after hours access to the historic house and fashion exhibition, a swinging jazz band, and cocktail bar.
Roundheads and Cavaliers: Family trail leading to an archaeological dig
It is 1645. Armies are marching through Devon. Parliament's roundheads are chasing the King's cavaliers and you need to make a decision. Who will you support?
Killerton Springs into Rhyme: Blossom poetry display
Be inspired by the blossom that's filling Killerton with colour.
Unflappable. Fashioning the 1920s
Killerton's exhibition for 2025 - Unflappable, fashioning the 1920s, will explore aspects of thoroughly modern dress 100 years ago.